Hearst Castle’s storied history begins in 1865, when George Hearst purchased 40,000 acres of ranchland. In 1919, William Randolph Hearst inherited what had grown to more than 250,000 acres, and was dreaming of ways to transform it into a retreat he called La Cuesta Encantada—Spanish for “Enchanted Hill.” By 1947, Hearst and architect Julia Morgan had created Hearst Castle: 165 rooms and 127 acres of gardens, terraces, pools and walkways—all built to house Hearst’s specifications and to showcase his legendary art collection.
Notable Rooms at Hearst Castle
Before you walk through Hearst Castle’s larger-than-life rooms, and explore it’s grandeur while on a tour, learn more about the history behind some of its most notable and storied rooms, including the gardens and its pools.
The Gardens of Hearst Castle
Discover the lush, serene gardens that were planned and developed as carefully as other parts of the Castle were by Hearst and Morgan.
Historic People
Hearst Castle would never have been possible without the vision of William Randolph Hearst and master architect Julia Morgan. Read more about who they were, in addition to others who played a pivotal role in bringing this legendary estate to life.
Works of Art
With a personal collection of ancient art, sculptures, furniture, relics and more, William Randolph Hearst amassed a collection that still rivals museums today, and used almost every square inch of the hilltop California estate to showcase it all. See notable works before you visit.
Restoration and Preservation
Once an estate for a newspaper magnate, Hearst Castle is now a living history museum and a California State Park. See who’s behind the ongoing restoration and preservation efforts for this legendary mansion, and discover how you can help protect it, too.
After you’ve had the chance to learn more about Hearst Castle history and art, browse through the Daily Tours offered, or take a Virtual Tour, to see La Cuesta Encantada—Spanish for “Enchanted Hill”—for yourself.